OAK PROCESSIONARY MOTH

CAUTION

Please check your oak trees!

The oak trees in this immediate area are being affected by a serious pest called the oak processionary moth.
The caterpillar of this moth not only strips oak of their leaves but also poses a considerable risk to animals and humans.  The caterpillars have fine hairs which can cause itchy rashes, eye and throat irritation and occasionally respiratory problems. Although the greatest risk period is May to July these irritant hairs are still present in old nests which remain on trunks and branches and should always be avoided.

Owners and members of the public are urged to report any sightings to the Forestry Commission via the link:  TreeAlert.
(www.forestresearch.gov.uk/tools-and-resources/fthr/tree-alert/)

For further information on how to recognise the nests and caterpillars go to OPM Manual especially Section 12 Pictures.